Chapter 18
Derek’s POV
The coffee shop was cozy, with warm lighting and the rich scent of espresso in the air.
Sophie sat across from me, her curly hair framing a bright smile as she talked about her sociology classes.
She was kind, funny, and genuinely interested. A normal date. Exactly what I needed to prove I could still be normal.
“I’m glad you finally said yes,” she said, stirring her latte. “You always seem so focused on your studies. It’s nice to see you outside the classroom.”
I forced a smile, nodding along. “Yeah, I've been busy with the research project and… family stuff.”
The date was supposed to be my reset button. A way to push back against the chaos with Marcus. To remind myself I wasn’t completely lost to whatever this thing between us was.
Sophie’s hand brushed
